Vehicle object detection and notification system

ABSTRACT

Disclosed and described herein is a vehicle object notification system comprising a steering interface that includes a plurality of light-emitting elements, each of the light-emitting elements arranged in an elongated pattern along a respective portion of the steering interface, wherein a first light emitting element is configured to illuminate based on a detection of an object relative to a first portion of a vehicle and a second light emitting element is configured to illuminate based on a detection of an object relative to a second portion of a vehicle.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates generally to object detection andnotification systems for vehicles and, more particularly, to solutionsfor integrating delivery of object detection information with vehiclecontrol/steering systems.

BACKGROUND

Many modern mobile machines and vehicles are equipped with objectdetection and collision avoidance systems. For example, many modernautomobiles include a collision avoidance system that includes arear-facing, vehicle-mounted video camera that is connected to anin-dash multi-function display monitor. When the vehicle is placed inreverse, the collision avoidance system automatically activates thecamera and displays the corresponding video feed on the in-dash display,providing the driver with rear visibility, with a greater field ofvision than is generally provided by the rear-view mirror(s). Somecollision avoidance systems also include additional safety measures,such as proximity alarms for notifying the driver of nearby objects andauto-braking schemes for causing the vehicle to automatically brake whenthe vehicle moves to within a threshold distance of a nearby object.

Although conventional collision avoidance systems may be convenient whenthe vehicle is moving, particularly when the vehicle is travelling inreverse or other situations in which driver visibility is impeded bydriver “blind-spots,” there a several drawbacks. First, many interactivedisplay technologies used in conventional collision avoidance systemsrequire a relatively high level of driver attentiveness, which candistract the driver from other, potentially hazardous situations. Forexample, requiring the driver to look at a dash-mounted video screenwhile backing up into a busy street may distract the driver frompedestrian or vehicle traffic travelling toward the sides of thevehicle. As a result, although the video monitoring system may keep thedriver keenly apprised of hazards approaching from behind the vehicle,the level of attention required to for the driver to process full-motionvideo may actually serve to distract the driver from other potentialhazards near the vehicle.

In addition to driver distraction, closed-circuit display technologiesused in many conventional collision avoidance systems can be costly. Forexample, many driver awareness camera system options can add 10-20% tothe cost of a standard vehicle. While this may be acceptable in luxurymarkets or other environments where such a cost premium can bejustified, it may be cost-prohibitive in many situations, such as fleetvehicles for local governments and small companies.

Various implementations of vehicle object detection and notificationsystems and corresponding information delivery methods disclosed hereinare directed to overcoming one or more of the problems set forth aboveand/or other problems in the art.

SUMMARY

According to various implementations, a vehicle object notificationsystem includes a steering interface that includes a plurality oflight-emitting elements. Each of the light-emitting elements is arrangedin an elongated pattern along a respective portion of the steeringinterface. A first light emitting element is configured to illuminatebased on a detection of an object relative to a first portion of avehicle, and a second light emitting element is configured to illuminatebased on a detection of an object relative to a second portion of avehicle. In some implementations, the first light emitting element maybe arranged in an elongated pattern along a rim portion of the steeringinterface and is configured to illuminate when the object is located infront of the vehicle. The second light emitting element may be arrangedin an elongated pattern along a hub portion of the steering interfaceand is configured to illuminate when the object is located behind thevehicle or underneath the vehicle. Alternatively, the secondlight-emitting element may be arranged in an elongated pattern along asecond rim portion of the steering interface.

In some implementations, the first light-emitting element may include aplurality of regions that are each configured to selectively illuminatebased on a respective location of the object relative to the firstportion of the vehicle. In addition, the second light-emitting elementmay include a plurality of regions that are each configured toselectively illuminate based on a respective location of the objectrelative to the second portion of the vehicle.

Various other implementations include a vehicle object notificationsystem that includes a steering interface, at least one light-emittingelement coupled to the steering interface, and a controllercommunicatively coupled to the at least one light-emitting element. Thelight-emitting element is arranged in an elongated pattern along atleast a portion of the steering interface. The controller is configuredto: (1) receive information indicative of an object detected proximatethe vehicle; (2) determine the location of the object relative to aportion of the vehicle based on the received information; and (3)provide, to the light-emitting element, a control signal forilluminating the light-emitting element according to an illuminationpattern. The illumination pattern is based on the location of theobject.

In some implementations, the vehicle object notification system mayinclude a plurality of light-emitting elements. A first light-emittingelement is arranged in an elongated pattern along a first portion of thesteering interface, and a second light-emitting element may be arrangedin an elongated pattern along a second portion of the steeringinterface. The first portion of the steering interface may include a rimportion, and the second portion of the steering interface may include ahub portion.

In some implementations, determining the location of the object relativeto the portion of the vehicle may include determining the location ofthe object is in a first location relative to the portion of thevehicle, and providing the control signal to the light-emitting elementmay include providing the control signal to the first light-emittingelement. The first location may include an area in front of the vehicle.In addition or as an alternative, determining the location of the objectrelative to the portion of the vehicle may include determining thelocation of the object is in a second location relative to the portionof the vehicle, and providing the control signal to the light-emittingelement includes providing the control signal to the secondlight-emitting element. The second location may include at least one ofan area behind the vehicle or underneath the vehicle.

In certain implementations, the first light-emitting element may includea plurality of regions, and each region is configured to selectivelyilluminate based on a respective location of the object relative to afirst portion of the vehicle. In addition, the second light-emittingelement may include a plurality of regions, and each region isconfigured to selectively illuminate based on a respective location ofthe object relative to a second portion of the vehicle.

Various implementations are directed to a vehicle that includes one ormore ground-engaging devices, a steering interface coupled to one ormore ground-engaging devices, at least one light-emitting elementcoupled to the steering interface, and a controller communicativelycoupled to the light-emitting element. The steering interface includes arim portion and a hub portion, and the rim portion is configured forgrasping by an operator of the vehicle. The light-emitting element isarranged in an elongated pattern along at least a portion of at leastone of the rim portion and the hub portion. The controller is configuredto: (1) receive information indicative of an object detected proximatethe vehicle; (2) determine the location of the object relative at aportion of the vehicle, based on the received information; and (3)providing, to the light-emitting element, a control signal forilluminating the light-emitting element according to an illuminationpattern. The illumination pattern is based on the location of theobject.

In certain implementations, the light-emitting element may include aplurality of light-emitting elements. A first light-emitting element maybe arranged in an elongated pattern along a first portion of thesteering interface, and a second light-emitting element may be arrangedin an elongated pattern along a second portion of the steeringinterface. The first portion of the steering may include a rim portion,and the second portion of the steering interface may include a hubportion. In addition, in some implementations, determining the locationof the object relative to the portion of the vehicle includesdetermining the location of the object is in a first location relativeto the portion of the vehicle, and providing the control signal to thelight-emitting element includes providing the control signal to thefirst light-emitting element. The first location may include an area infront of the vehicle.

In addition, in certain implementations, determining the location of theobject relative to the portion of the vehicle may include determiningthe location of the object is in a second location relative to theportion of the vehicle, and providing the control signal to thelight-emitting element may include providing the control signal to thesecond light-emitting element. The second location may include at leastone of an area behind the vehicle or underneath the vehicle.

The first light-emitting element may include a plurality of regions, andeach region may be configured to selectively illuminate based on arespective location of the object relative to a first portion of thevehicle. In addition, the second light-emitting element may include aplurality of regions, and each region may be configured to selectivelyilluminate based on a respective location of the object relative to asecond portion of the vehicle.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The device is explained in even greater detail in the followingexemplary drawings. The drawings are merely exemplary to illustrate thestructure of preferred devices and certain features that may be usedsingularly or in combination with other features. The invention shouldnot be limited to the implementations shown.

FIG. 1 illustrates a vehicle with a vehicle object notification systemaccording to one implementation;

FIG. 2 illustrates a partial front view of a steering interfaceaccording to another implementation;

FIG. 3A illustrates a front view of a steering interface according toone implementation;

FIG. 3B illustrates a front view of a steering interface according toanother implementation;

FIG. 3C illustrates a front view of a steering interface according toanother implementation;

FIG. 3D illustrates a front view of a steering interface according toanother implementation;

FIG. 4 illustrates a schematic diagram of a vehicle object notificationsystem according to one implementation;

FIG. 5 illustrates a flow chart of a method of controlling a vehicleobject notification system according to one implementation; and

FIG. 6 illustrates a flow chart of a method of controlling a vehicleobject notification system according to another implementation.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

According to various implementations, a vehicle object notificationsystem includes a steering interface that includes a plurality oflight-emitting elements. Each of the light-emitting elements is arrangedin an elongated pattern along a respective portion of the steeringinterface. A first light emitting element is configured to illuminatebased on a detection of an object relative to a first portion of avehicle, and a second light emitting element is configured to illuminatebased on a detection of an object relative to a second portion of avehicle. In certain implementations, the first light emitting elementmay be arranged in an elongated pattern along a rim portion of thesteering interface and is configured to illuminate when the object islocated in front of the vehicle. The second light emitting element maybe arranged in an elongated pattern along a hub portion of the steeringinterface and is configured to illuminate when the object is locatedbehind the vehicle or underneath the vehicle. Alternatively, the secondlight-emitting element may be arranged in an elongated pattern along asecond rim portion of the steering interface.

Certain exemplary implementations of the invention will now be describedwith reference to the drawings. In general, such implementations relateto a steering apparatus for a vehicle. FIG. 1 illustrates a vehicle 110with a vehicle object notification system 120 according to oneimplementation 100. As shown in FIG. 1, the vehicle 110 can comprise oneor more ground-engaging devices (shown as tires with rims in thisvehicle, but can be runners, tracks, etc. in other types of vehicles). Asteering interface 124 can be coupled to one or more ground-engagingdevices. Generally, the steering interface 124 comprises at least asteering grip that can be configured for gripping to facilitate controlof the vehicle. For example, the steering grip may be mounted on anon-rotatable component (not shown) such that the steering grip isrotationally movable about a steering axis. An exemplary non-rotatablecomponent can include, for example, a steering column, which receives asteering spindle that extends along the steering axis and serves totransmit the rotational movement of the steering grip to the wheels orother ground-engaging devices of the motor vehicle. Rotational movementof the steering grip may be transmitted to the wheels by mechanicaland/or electrical means. In an exemplary implementation, the steeringgrip can include a single continuous grip portion or any number ofunique grip sections. For example, the steering grip can include anannular ring shape with an outer contour that is essentially circular inshape. In an alternate implementation, the steering grip can define anysuitable shape including, for example, circular, elliptical,semi-circular or semi-elliptical, square, rectangular, or any otherregular or irregular shape. In addition, in some implementations, thesteering grip may include two or more semi-circular, semi-elliptical,semi-rectangular, or other regular or irregular shaped portions. Forexample, in one implementation, the steering grip may include twosemi-circular sections (e.g., resembling a flight yoke).

Though not visible in FIG. 1, in some implementations the steeringinterface 124 can further comprise a rim portion and a hub portion, therim portion configured for grasping by an operator 111 of the vehicle110. Further comprising the implementation 100 shown in FIG. 1 can be acontroller 122. The controller 122 can be communicatively coupled to atleast one light-emitting element coupled to the steering interface 124,the at least one light-emitting element arranged, for example, in anelongated pattern along at least a portion of at least one of the rimportion and the hub portion of the steering interface 124.

The controller 122 may be configured to direct operation of the at leastone light-emitting element. The controller 122 can be associated withthe steering interface 124. In an exemplary implementation, thecontroller 122 may be located on or proximate the at least onelight-emitting element. In an alternative implementation, the controller122 may be located on or otherwise associated with the electroniccontrol unit of the vehicle 110. In a further implementation, thecontroller 122 may be located on or otherwise associated with anothervehicle system. Where the controller 122 is associated with a systemother than the steering interface, wired and/or wireless communicationlines (i.e., data and/or power wires (including fiber optic), radiofrequency, Wi-Fi (IEEE 802.11 (any variant), Bluetooth, etc.) may beprovided from the alternate system to the light element 104. Forexample, the at least one light-emitting element may be connected to thevehicle's electronic control unit (ECU) by a wire run from the ECU unitto the at least one light-emitting element. In a further example,particular zones on the at least one light-emitting element maycommunicate with a processor associated with a system other than thesteering interface 124, and communication lines (i.e., data and/or powerwires) may be provided from the alternate system to the zoned at leastone light-emitting element.

In an exemplary implementation, the at least one light-emitting elementand the controller 122 are connected in communication with the vehicleby at least two wires where the first wire may provide a power source tothe at least one light-emitting element and the controller 122 and thesecond wire provides a data connection between the steering interfaceand the vehicle. In a further example, the at least one light-emittingelement and the controller 122 may be connected in communication withthe vehicle by two wires, one including multiple communication lines andthe second wire including power source. For example, where the at leastone light-emitting element includes 6 zones, the first wire may include6 communication lines for directing the operation of the correspondingzones, and the second wire may be a power source for providing power tothe at least one light-emitting element. The at least one light-emittingelement and the controller 122 may, alternatively, be in communicationwith the vehicle at only a power source.

In an exemplary implementation, the controller 122 may be configured toreceive information from the vehicle. Information received from thevehicle may include, for example, GPS (global positioning system)information, navigation information, foreign object proximityinformation, vehicle performance information, general warninginformation, course information, positioning information, blind spotwarning and the like available from on-board sensors and systems such ascameras, radar, LIDAR (light detection and ranging) systems, vehiclecommunication system information, and any other information relevant tothe operation of the vehicle, the status of the user, and/or thefunctioning of the steering interface 124.

Navigation information may include, for example, a preparation forcourse change (e.g., lane recommendation in anticipation of pendingcourse change), a navigation course change (e.g., instructions forfollowing determined route and/or notification that the determined routehas been recalculated), and a distance to course change (e.g., distanceto turn). Foreign object proximity information may include, for example,the distance and direction to an identified foreign object, the size ofa foreign object, and the relative speed and direction of the foreignobject. Foreign object information can also include foreign individualproximity information. For example, vehicle systems can be used todetect an unauthorized person's presence in/on/proximate the vehicle(e.g., sensors within the vehicle can detect the touch, weight/pressure,etc. of unauthorized individual in/on/proximate the vehicle). Examplesensors might include capacitive sensors, pressure sensors,conductivity/resistivity sensors, and weight sensors. Foreign individualproximity information may be utilized in conjunction with any vehiclesecurity/alarm system.

Vehicle performance information may include, for example, on/offoperation of the vehicle, battery life/status, fuel level, fuelefficiency, engine RPM, vehicle oversteer, vehicle understeer,turbocharger/supercharger boost pressure, an electrical vehicle (eV)status, stop and go vehicle mode, steering interface 124 straight-aheadposition, vehicle lateral acceleration, autonomous vehicle driving stateinformation, adaptive cruise control state information, keyless entry(e.g., confirmation approved key fob detected), and keyless ignitionoperation, traction control, electronic stability control, brakingcontrol (e.g., anti-lock braking system control/status), active handlingmode, vehicle track/race/competition mode. General vehicle warninginformation may include, for example, occupant restraint information,airbag status information, door or window open/ajar/closed, sunroof/moonroof open/ajar/closed, low tire pressure, vehicle audio system status(e.g., entertainment system, audio volume, equalizer display/function,speaker control (e.g., left, right, front, rear, etc.)), vehiclecommunication system status (e.g., incoming call, Bluetoothactivated/connected, etc.), heating and air conditioning system (e.g.,temperature, fan speed), other temperature control systems (e.g.,heated/cooled steering wheel, headed/cooled seats, beverage coolers, oilheater, battery heater, transmission heater, etc.). Course informationmay include, for example, a measure of a course remaining (e.g., aracing lap time countdown as a binary clock, lap segments, timesegments, etc.) and a measure of the course remaining/completed (e.g.,quantity of racing laps).

Operation of the at least one light-emitting element may be directed inresponse to information received from the steering interface 124 and/orinformation received from the vehicle. The at least one light-emittingelement may be used to provide information and warning signals to thedriver of the vehicle. In a further implementation, the at least onelight-emitting element may be used to provide an aestheticallypleasing/decorative effect. For example, the at least one light-emittingelement may be used at vehicle start up to provide a decorative effectin addition to providing an indication to the driver of the vehicle'soperation status.

Directing illumination of the at least one light-emitting element mayinclude, for example, the on/off state of the at least onelight-emitting element, intensity, design/pattern, on/off illuminationcycle, color, or any other feature of the at least one light-emittingelement that can be controlled or otherwise manipulated. In an exemplaryimplementation, the on/off status of the at least one light-emittingelement can be controlled. For example, in an implementation includingmultiple of the at least one light-emitting element, the quantity oflight-emitting elements illuminated at a given time can be used toindicate the magnitude and/or scale of the warning or event, the greaterthe number illuminated the greater the threat and/or importance of thewarning/event. Similar to quantity, the intensity of the at least onelight-emitting element can be used to indicate the magnitude and/orscale of the warning or event, the greater the light intensity thegreater the threat and/or importance of the warning/event. The actualdesign/pattern can be used to convey a particular message to the driver(e.g., illuminated symbols, shapes, text, icons, etc.). Likewise, thedesign/pattern of illumination can be used to indicate themagnitude/scale of the warning or event. The on/off illumination cycleor frequency of illumination of the at least one light-emitting elementcan also be controlled to create a flashing or strobe-like effect. Forexample, a high frequency on/off illumination cycle may be used toindicate an important and/or time sensitive event to the driver such asan impact or collision warning. In a further example, when the at leastone light-emitting element comprises an infrared (IR) illuminator, astrobed/flashing light signal may be used to illuminate the driver'seyes for use in camera-based driver monitoring systems. The operation ofthe exemplary IR illuminator-type light-emitting element may be timed incommunication with a camera, or other sensing device, and a processor tocapture an image of the driver's eyes or other portions of the driver'sface and/or body. Moreover, the use of IR light-emitting diodes (LEDs)can be used to mitigate light reflection when the driver is wearing eyeglasses.

The selection of the at least one light-emitting element forillumination at a certain position can also be used to indicate therelative position of the warning or event. For example, if the one ormore objects are detected at the front driver's side section of thevehicle, the at least one light-emitting element at a correspondingposition on the rim portion of the steering interface 124 (i.e., upperleft quadrant) may be illuminated. Likewise, if the one or more objectsare detected at behind or underneath the vehicle, the at least onelight-emitting element at the hub portion of the steering interface 124may be illuminated. Similarly, the on/off illumination cycle may be usedto create a motion effect. The perceived direction of the light patterncan be used to indicate the relative direction of warning. For example,an on/off illumination pattern starting from the center of the steeringinterface 124 and progressing toward the left side of the interface 124may create an illuminated wave-like effect toward the left that can beused to indicate a warning/event associated with the left side of thevehicle or an indication to the driver of a pending course change in anavigational setting.

The controller 122 can receive information indicative of one or moreobjects 112 a, 112 b, 113 detected on, in or proximate to the vehicle110. Once information indicative of the objects 112 a, 112 b, 113 isreceived by the controller 122, the controller can determine thelocation of the one or more objects 112 a, 112 b, 113 relative to aportion of the vehicle 110, based on the received information. Forexample, the controller 122 can determine whether the one or moreobjects 112 a, 112 b, 113 are in front of the vehicle 110 (as children112 a, 112 b are shown in FIG. 1), are underneath the vehicle 110 (asdog 113 is shown in FIG. 1), are behind the vehicle 110, are to any sideof the vehicle 110, are above the vehicle 110, are in the vehicle 110(and their location within the vehicle 110), are on the vehicle 110 (andlocation), are touching the vehicle 110 (and location), etc. Thecontroller 122 can be communicatively coupled with one or more sensors121 a, 121 b, 121 c that can be used to provide the informationindicative of the objects 112 a, 112 b, 113 to the controller 122.Example sensors 121 a, 121 b, 121 c might include motion sensors,capacitive sensors, pressure sensors, conductivity/resistivity sensors,heat sensors, weight sensors, proximity sensors, and the like andcombinations thereof. Alternatively or optionally, the controller mayreceive information from vehicle systems. Information received from thevehicle can include, for example, GPS information, on-board sensorinformation, camera information, communication system information, laneposition information, and the like.

Upon determining the location of the one or more objects 112 a, 112 b,113 relative to a portion of the vehicle 110, based on the receivedinformation, a control signal can be provided to the at least onelight-emitting element for illuminating the at least one light-emittingelement according to an illumination pattern, the illumination patternbased on the location of the one or more objects 112 a, 112 b, 113relative to a portion of the vehicle 110.

Also, as shown in FIG. 1, in addition to the at least one light-emittingelement coupled to the steering interface 124, the controller 122 mayalso be in communication with other vehicle systems such as, forexample, a steering control system 123 a, a vehicle braking system 123b, a warning system 123 c such as, for example the vehiclesanti-theft/security/alarm system and the like, which can further becomprised of audible, visual, haptic devices for making the vehicleoperator 111 (or other passengers or persons) aware of the detection ofone or more objects 112 a, 112 b, 113 relative to a portion of thevehicle 110. For example, steering may be locked or released through thesteering control system 123 a depending upon the presence or absence ofone or more objects 112 a, 112 b, 113 relative to a portion of thevehicle 110. Similarly, brakes can be applied or released by the brakingsystem 123 b depending upon the presence or absence of one or moreobjects 112 a, 112 b, 113 relative to a portion of the vehicle 110.Further, alarms 210 a can be sounded and/or warning lights operatedthrough the vehicle's warning system 123 c depending upon the presenceor absence of one or more objects 112 a, 112 b, 113 relative to aportion of the vehicle 110. Similarly, the controller 122 may beconnected with other vehicle systems to receive information or tooperate or prevent operation of components of the vehicle depending uponthe presence or absence of one or more objects 112 a, 112 b, 113relative to a portion of the vehicle 110.

In one implementation, the at least one light-emitting element of thevehicle 110 can further comprise a plurality of light-emitting elementssuch as, for example, a first light-emitting element arranged in anelongated pattern along a first portion of the steering interface 124and a second light-emitting element arranged in an elongated patternalong a second portion of the steering interface 124. For instance, thefirst portion of the steering interface having the first light-emittingelement arranged in an elongated pattern can include a rim portion andthe second portion of the steering interface having the secondlight-emitting element arranged in an elongated pattern can include ahub portion. In one non-limiting example, determining the location ofthe one or more objects 112 a, 112 b, 113 relative to the portion of thevehicle 110 can include determining the location of the one or moreobjects 112 a, 112 b, 113 is in a first location relative to the portionof the vehicle 110 and providing the control signal to the at least onelight-emitting element includes providing the control signal to thefirst light-emitting element. In one implementation, the first locationcomprises an area in front of the vehicle 110. Likewise, determining thelocation of the one or more objects 112 a, 112 b, 113 relative to theportion of the vehicle 110 can include determining the location of theone or more objects 112 a, 112 b, 113 is in a second location relativeto the portion of the vehicle 110 and providing the control signal tothe at least one light-emitting element includes providing the controlsignal to the second light-emitting element. In one implementation, thesecond location comprises at least one of an area behind the vehicle 110or underneath the vehicle 110.

FIG. 2 illustrates a partial front view of a steering interfaceaccording to another implementation. In this exemplary implementation,the steering interface 124 includes one or more first light-emittingelements 104 for providing indication and/or warning light signals tothe driver of the vehicle corresponding to detection of one or moreobjects 112 a, 112 b, 113 relative to a first portion of the vehicle 110and one or more second light-emitting elements 108 corresponding todetection of one or more objects 112 a, 112 b, 113 relative to a secondportion of the vehicle 110. The first and second light-emitting elements104, 108 can include, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD),thin-film-transistor display, active-matrix display, a segmented display(e.g., improved black nematic (IBN), super twisted nematic (STN), etc.),a light-emitting diode (LED), laser, halogen, fluorescent, an infra-red(IR) LED illuminator, or any other suitable light emitting element. Inan alternate implementation, the first light-emitting element 104 or thesecond light-emitting element 108 can include a light pipe (not shown)having a start and end LEDs located at opposite ends of a (solid orhollow) molded plastic rod. The steering interface 124 can also includea reflective material or surface for recycling light emitted from thefirst or second light elements 104, 108 and can be used to direct lightto the driver.

In an exemplary implementation, the first light-emitting element 104 orthe second light-emitting element 108 can display a single color ormultiple colors. For example, the exemplary LED can include a singlecolor LED, a bi-color LED, and a tri-color LED. The first light-emittingelement 104 and the second light-emitting element 108 do not have todisplay the same colors at the same time. The steering interface 124 caninclude a single first light-emitting element 104 or any number of firstlight-emitting elements 104. Similarly, the steering interface 124 caninclude a single second light-emitting element 108 or any number ofsecond light-emitting elements 108. Moreover, different types of firstlight-emitting elements 104 and second light-emitting elements 108 maybe implemented on the same steering apparatus 100. For example, asteering grip 102 may include both standard LEDs and IR LEDs and thefirst light-emitting element 104 can be comprised of a combination ofthe two types of LEDs as can the second light-emitting element 108.

As described herein, the first light-emitting element 104 can be locatedat any portion of the steering grip 102 and the second light-emittingelement 108 can be located in any other portion of the steeringinterface 124. The first light-emitting element 104 can be located on aninterior edge of the steering grip 102. In an alternate implementation,not shown, the first light-emitting element 104 can be located on anexterior edge of the steering grip 102. In an alternate implementation(not shown), the first light-emitting element 104 can be located on afront or back face of the steering grip 102. The first light-emittingelement 104 can be provided in a direction defined by theperimeter/diameter of the steering grip 102. Similarly, the secondlight-emitting element 108 can be an elongated pattern defined along atleast a portion of the hub portion of the steering interface 124. Thefirst light-emitting element 104 and the second light-emitting element108 can define any suitable shape including, for example, circular,elliptical, square, rectangular, or any other regular or irregularshape. For example, an exemplary first light-emitting element 104 can beprovided with an elongated shape having curvilinear sides whereas anexemplary second light-emitting element 108 may lack the curvilinearsides. In an implementation provided in FIG. 2, the first light-emittingelement 104 can include a vertical element 106 extending in a radialdirection of the steering grip 102.

In a further implementation, the vertical element 106 can be used toindicate the relative position and threat level associated with aparticular warning/event. As illustrated in FIG. 2, the vertical element106 may include a plurality of light elements. When the vehicle is in astraight ahead orientation, the light elements centered in the verticalelement 106 may be illuminated. Because the relative threat/warninglevel in the straight ahead position is minimal, the illuminated lightelements in this position may be green. In response to detection of oneor more objects in front of the vehicle or to the left or right side ofthe vehicle 110, the light elements on the left or right side,respectively, of the vertical element 106 are illuminated. For example,an initial indication that one or more objects are nearing the vehicletoward its left side may be provided by illumination of the lightelements on the left side of the vertical section 106. These lightelements may indicate a moderate threat/warning and may be provided, forexample, by yellow illuminated light elements. As the objects moveprogressively closer to the left side of the vehicle, the light elementsmay change colors from yellow to red, indicating that the risk levelassociated with the one or more objects has escalated from moderate tosevere and/or immediate. Further, as the object is approaching the lightelements in the vertical section 106 may illuminate in a wave patternsuggesting the direction of the object and/or the proximity of theobject to the vehicle. As a further example, the light elements in thevertical section 106 may illuminate in an illumination pattern, at agreater on/off frequency, at a particular quantity of light elements,with greater intensity, and/or varying colors as the direction and/orthe proximity of the object to the vehicle change.

FIGS. 3A-3D illustrate front views of a steering interface 124 accordingto various implementations of the at least one light-emitting element ofthe vehicle 110 comprising a plurality of light-emitting elements suchas, for example, a first light-emitting element 310 arranged in anelongated pattern along a first portion of the steering interface 124and a second light-emitting element 320 arranged in an elongated patternalong a second portion of the steering interface 124.

For example, as illustrated in FIG. 3A, the steering interface 124 mayinclude a first single light emitting element 310 spanning the entireperimeter of the steering interface 124 thereby providing a 360°illumination system and a second elongated light-emitting element 320 inthe hub of the steering interface 124. In an alternate implementation asillustrated in FIG. 3B, the steering interface 124 may include a firstsingle light emitting element 310 along the upper half of the perimeterdefined by the steering interface 124 and a second elongatedlight-emitting element 320 in the hub of the steering interface 124. Infurther implementations illustrated in FIGS. 3C-3D, the steeringinterface 124 may include multiple first light-emitting elements 310and/or second light-emitting elements 320. Because the steeringinterface 124 may be constructed to withstand substantial loading in theevent of a crash, a steering interface 124 including multiple firstlight-emitting elements 310 and/or second light-emitting elements 320can provide for less likelihood that a first 310 or second 320light-emitting element will break upon impact and/or airbag deployment.Moreover, locating multiple first light-emitting elements along thediameter of the steering interface 124, and in particular along theupper half of the steering interface rim, helps with the assemblyprocess and improves the system's mechanical robustness to dynamic orstatic loading at the 12 o'clock position on the rim of the steeringinterface 124. As illustrated in FIG. 3C, the steering interface 124 mayinclude multiple first light-emitting elements 310 along a first portionof the steering interface 124, including, for example, a portion of thefirst light-emitting element 310 a may be located on a right portion ofthe steering interface diameter and a portion of the first lightemitting element 310 b may also be located on a left portion of thesteering interface diameter. A second light-emitting element 320arranged in an elongated pattern can be along a second portion of thesteering interface 124. In this example, the second light-emittingelement is located within the hub of the steering interface 124. Inanother implementation illustrated in FIG. 3D, the steering interface124 may include three first light-emitting elements 310 along a firstportion of the steering interface 124 and at least one secondlight-emitting element 320 arranged in an elongated pattern along asecond portion of the steering interface 124. First light-emittingelement 310 a may be located on a right portion of the steeringinterface 124, first light-emitting element 310 b on a left portion ofthe steering interface 124, first light-emitting element 310 c on a topcenter portion of the steering interface 124, between firstlight-emitting elements 310 a and 310 b, and second light-emittingelement 320 located in the hub of the steering interface 124. In afurther implementation, not shown, the steering interface may include afirst light-emitting element 310 and/or a second light-emitting element320 located on a lower portion of the steering interface 124. Any numberof locations and quantities of first light-emitting elements 310 andsecond light-emitting elements 320 are considered within the disclosedimplementation.

In an exemplary implementation, each of the first light-emittingelements 310 and the second light-emitting elements 320 can include asingle zone or multiple zones for directing operation of thelight-emitting elements. For example, in an exemplary implementation,the first light-emitting element 310 or the second light-emittingelement 320 may be controlled based on instructions provided to thecorresponding zone of the first light-emitting element 310 or the secondlight-emitting element 320 from the controller 122. Each of the firstlight-emitting element 310 and the second light-emitting element 320 mayinclude a single light source, such as one LED, or it may includemultiple light sources, i.e., multiple LEDs. In an exemplaryimplementation, the controller can provide separate instructions to eachof the individual LEDs within the same zone. For example, LEDs may lightsequentially, blink, or different color LEDs may be operated based oninstructions from the controller 122.

In an alternate implementation, each of the first light-emitting element310 or the second light-emitting element 320 can include multiple zones,for example, two or more zones, each zone can be configured to receiveseparate operating instructions from the controller 122. In an exemplaryimplementation, the LEDs may be arranged into groups and each group ofLEDs assigned a zone on the first light-emitting element 310 or thesecond light-emitting element 320. For example, the first light-emittingelement 310 may include 36 LED-style lights. The exemplary firstlight-emitting element 310 may be divided into four zones, each zoneassociated with 9 LEDs. The first light-emitting element 310 can controloperation of the LEDs in each of the four zones separately based on theinstructions provided by the controller 122. Such “zone control” is alsopossible with the second light-emitting element 320.

In an alternate implementation, the first light-emitting element 310 orthe second light-emitting element 320 can include a number of zonescorresponding to the number of lights present on the light-emittingelement 310, 320, where each zone provides operation instructions to itscorresponding individual lights as received from the controller 122. Forexample, an exemplary first light-emitting element 310 may include 36LED-style lights and 36 zones corresponding to each of the 36 LEDs. Thecontroller 122 can individually control operation of each of the 36 LEDsbased on instructions provided to each of the corresponding 36 zones.The second light-emitting element 320 can similarly be configured.Therefore, as described herein, the first light-emitting element 310 caninclude a plurality of zones or regions, each zone or region configuredto selectively illuminate based on a respective location of the one ormore objects relative to a first portion of the vehicle. Likewise, thesecond light-emitting element 320 can include a plurality of zones orregions, each zone or region configured to selectively illuminate basedon a respective location of the one or more objects relative to a secondportion of the vehicle.

It should be appreciated that the logical operations described hereinwith respect to the various figures may be implemented (1) as a sequenceof computer implemented acts or program modules (i.e., software) runningon a computing device, (2) as interconnected machine logic circuits orcircuit modules (i.e., hardware) within the computing device and/or (3)a combination of software and hardware of the computing device. Thus,the logical operations discussed herein are not limited to any specificcombination of hardware and software. The implementation is a matter ofchoice dependent on the performance and other requirements of thecomputing device. Accordingly, the logical operations described hereinare referred to variously as operations, structural devices, acts, ormodules. These operations, structural devices, acts and modules may beimplemented in software, in firmware, in special purpose digital logic,and any combination thereof. It should also be appreciated that more orfewer operations may be performed than shown in the figures anddescribed herein. These operations may also be performed in a differentorder than those described herein.

When the logical operations described herein are implemented insoftware, the process may execute on any type of computing architectureor platform. For example, the functions of the one or morelight-emitting elements, controller, control circuitry, and vehicleelectronics control unit, as described above, may be implemented on anytype of computing architecture or platform. An exemplary implementationillustrated in FIG. 4 provides an example system 420 and computingdevice such as controller 122 upon which embodiments of the inventionmay be implemented. The controller 122 may include a bus or othercommunication mechanism for communicating information among variouscomponents of the controller 122. In its most basic configuration,controller 122 typically includes at least one processing unit 401 andsystem memory. Depending on the exact configuration and type ofcomputing device, system memory may be volatile (such as random accessmemory (RAM)) 402, non-volatile (such as read-only memory (ROM), flashmemory, etc.) 403, or some combination of the two. The processing unit401 may be a standard programmable processor that performs arithmeticand logic operations necessary for operation of the controller 122.

Controller 122 may have additional features/functionality. For example,controller 122 may include additional storage such as removable and/ornon-removable storage 404 including, but not limited to, magnetic oroptical disks or tapes. Controller 122 may also contain networkconnection(s) 407 that allow the device to communicate with otherdevices. Controller 122 may also have input device(s) or be capable ofbeing connect with input/output devices 406 such as a keyboard, mouse,touch screen, etc. and a display, speakers, printer, etc. The additionaldevices may be connected to the bus in order to facilitate communicationof data among the components of the controller 122. All these devicesare well known in the art and need not be discussed at length here.

The processing unit 401 may be configured to execute program codeencoded in tangible, computer-readable media. Computer-readable mediarefers to any media that is capable of providing data that causes thecontroller 122 (i.e., a machine) to operate in a particular fashion.Various computer-readable media may be utilized to provide instructionsto the processing unit 122 for execution. Common forms ofcomputer-readable media include, for example, magnetic media, opticalmedia, physical media, memory chips or cartridges, a carrier wave, orany other medium from which a computer can read. Examplecomputer-readable media may include, but is not limited to, volatilemedia, non-volatile media and transmission media. Volatile andnon-volatile media may be implemented in any method or technology forstorage of information such as computer readable instructions, datastructures, program modules or other data and common forms are discussedin detail below. Transmission media may include coaxial cables, copperwires and/or fiber optic cables, as well as acoustic or light waves,such as those generated during radio-wave and infra-red datacommunication. Example tangible, computer-readable recording mediainclude, but are not limited to, an integrated circuit (e.g.,field-programmable gate array or application-specific IC), a hard disk,an optical disk, a magneto-optical disk, a floppy disk, a magnetic tape,a holographic storage medium, a solid-state device, RAM, ROM,electrically erasable program read-only memory (EEPROM), flash memory orother memory technology, CD-ROM, digital versatile disks (DVD) or otheroptical storage, magnetic cassettes, magnetic tape, magnetic diskstorage or other magnetic storage devices.

In an example implementation, the processing unit 401 may executeprogram code stored in the system memory 402, 403. For example, the busmay carry data to the system memory 402, 403, from which the processingunit 401 receives and executes instructions. The data received by thesystem memory 402, 403 may optionally be stored on theremovable/non-removable storage 404 before or after execution by theprocessing unit 401.

Controller 122 typically includes a variety of computer-readable media.Computer-readable media can be any available media that can be accessedby device 122 and includes both volatile and non-volatile media,removable and non-removable media. Computer storage media includevolatile and non-volatile, and removable and non-removable mediaimplemented in any method or technology for storage of information suchas computer readable instructions, data structures, program modules orother data. System memory 402, 403, removable/non-removable storage 404are all examples of computer storage media. Computer storage mediainclude, but are not limited to, RAM, ROM, electrically erasable programread-only memory (EEPROM), flash memory or other memory technology,CD-ROM, digital versatile disks (DVD) or other optical storage, magneticcassettes, magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage or other magneticstorage devices, or any other medium which can be used to store thedesired information and which can be accessed by controller 122. Anysuch computer storage media may be part of controller 122.

Further comprising the system 420 of FIG. 4 are other vehicle systemssuch as, for example, a steering control system 123 a, a vehicle brakingsystem 123 b, a warning system 123 c such as, for example, the vehiclesanti-theft/security/alarm system and the like that are in communicationwith the controller 122. In one aspect, the warning system 123 c canfurther be comprised of audible 210 a, visual 210 b, haptic devices formaking the vehicle operator (or other passengers or persons) aware ofthe detection of one or more objects relative to a portion of thevehicle. The steering control system can further interact with thelightbar system 410, which includes one or more first light-emittingelements for providing indication and/or warning light signals to thedriver of the vehicle corresponding to detection of one or more objectsrelative to a first portion of the vehicle and one or more secondlight-emitting elements corresponding to detection of one or moreobjects relative to a second portion of the vehicle.

It should be understood that the various techniques described herein maybe implemented in connection with hardware or software or, whereappropriate, with a combination thereof. Thus, the methods andapparatuses of the presently disclosed subject matter, or certainaspects or portions thereof, may take the form of program code (i.e.,instructions) embodied in tangible media, such as floppy diskettes,CD-ROMs, hard drives, or any other machine-readable storage mediumwherein, when the program code is loaded into and executed by a machine,such as a computing device, the machine becomes an apparatus forpracticing the presently disclosed subject matter. In the case ofprogram code execution on programmable computers, the computing devicegenerally includes a processor, a storage medium readable by theprocessor (including volatile and non-volatile memory and/or storageelements), at least one input device, and at least one output device.One or more programs may implement or utilize the processes described inconnection with the presently disclosed subject matter, e.g., throughthe use of an application programming interface (API), reusablecontrols, or the like. Such programs may be implemented in a high levelprocedural or object-oriented programming language to communicate with acomputer system. However, the program(s) can be implemented in assemblyor machine language, if desired. In any case, the language may be acompiled or interpreted language and it may be combined with hardwareimplementations.

FIG. 5 illustrates a flow chart of an exemplary method of controlling avehicle object notification system according to one implementation.Aspects of this implementation may be carried out on the controller 122described above and in detail in FIG. 4 or on other computing devices.The process begins at 510, where the presence of an object proximate toa vehicle is detected. Systems and methods of detecting the presence ofthe objects are described herein, particularly in reference to FIGS. 1and 4. At 520, the location of the detected object relative to thevehicle is determined. Though described in greater detail with referenceto FIG. 1, generally this involves determining whether one or moreobjects are in front of the vehicle, are underneath the vehicle, arebehind the vehicle, are to any side of the vehicle, are above thevehicle, are in the vehicle, are on the vehicle, are touching thevehicle, etc. At 530, a lightbar illumination control scheme isdetermined based on the position or proximity of the detected objectrelative to the vehicle. For example, the lightbar can comprise aplurality of light-emitting elements such as, for example, a firstlight-emitting element arranged in an elongated pattern along a firstportion of the steering interface and a second light-emitting elementarranged in an elongated pattern along a second portion of the steeringinterface. For instance, the first portion of the steering interfacehaving the first light-emitting element arranged in an elongated patterncan include a rim portion and the second portion of the steeringinterface having the second light-emitting element arranged in anelongated pattern can include a hub portion. At 540, the light-emittingelements that comprise the lightbar are illuminated in accordance withthe control scheme determined at 530. Lighting particular sections ofthe lightbar using patterns of lighting, colors, frequency, etc. can beused to alert the vehicle's operator as to the location or proximity ofthe object. For example, lighting elements on the upper rim section ofthe steering interface may alert the operator that the object isdetected in front of the vehicle, whereas lighting the portion in thehub may alert the operator that the object is detected underneath orbehind the vehicle. Colors, for example, green, yellow and red, can beused as one of many ways to alert the operator as to the proximity ofthe object.

Returning to 520, optionally or alternatively, at 535, once the locationor proximity of the object has been detected, safety measures on thevehicle may be selectively engaged. For example, if the object isdetermined to be in front of the vehicle and in close proximity, thebraking system of the vehicle may be applied, the engine may be shutdown, or the transmission disengaged such that the vehicle cannot moveforward. Similarly, the lights of the vehicle may turn on or flash, or awarning noise (e.g., horn) may be emitted by the vehicle. Similaractions can be taken for objects detected underneath, behind, beside orat other locations with respect to the vehicle. The actions taken can beprogressive based on proximity. For example, first actions may be toflash the lights or blow the horn. Then, as the vehicle or the objectmove closer to one another, the brakes may be applied or thetransmission disengaged. A third level of action could be to shut downthe engine of the vehicle and engage the parking brake. At 545, it isdetermined whether the object has cleared after the safety measures havebeen performed. If the object is cleared, then the process returns to510. If it has not cleared, then the process returns to 535, whereadditional safety measures may be engaged.

FIG. 6 illustrates a flow chart of a method 600 of controlling a vehicleobject notification system according to another implementation. Aspectsof this implementation may be carried out on the controller 122described above and in detail in FIG. 4, or on other computing devices.The process begins at 610 where information indicative of an objectproximate to a vehicle is received. For example, the information couldbe received by the controller 122. At 620, the location and/or proximityof the object, relative to the vehicle, is determined based on theinformation received in 610. At 630, an illumination pattern for one ormore light-emitting elements located on a steering interface is selectedbased on the location and/or proximity of the object. For example, asteering interface can comprise a plurality of light-emitting elementssuch as, for example, a first light-emitting element arranged in anelongated pattern along a first portion of the steering interface and asecond light-emitting element arranged in an elongated pattern along asecond portion of the steering interface. For instance, the firstportion of the steering interface having the first light-emittingelement arranged in an elongated pattern can include a rim portion andthe second portion of the steering interface having the secondlight-emitting element arranged in an elongated pattern can include ahub portion. An illumination pattern for the light-emitting elements caninclude lighting particular sections of the one or more light-emittingelements using patterns of lighting, colors, frequency, etc. can be usedto alert the vehicle's operator as to the location or proximity of theobject. For example, lighting elements on the upper rim section of thesteering interface may alert the operator that the object is detected infront of the vehicle, whereas lighting the portion in the hub may alertthe operator that the object is detected underneath or behind thevehicle. Colors, for example, green, yellow and red, can be used as oneof many ways to alert the operator as to the proximity of the object. At640, a signal or signals are generated to cause the one or morelight-emitting elements to illuminate in accordance with theillumination pattern selected in 630 to indicate the location and/orproximity of a detected object.

Returning to 620, optionally or alternatively, at 635, once the locationor proximity of the object has been detected, safety measures on thevehicle may be identified. For example, if the object is determined tobe in front of the vehicle and in close proximity, signals for applyingthe braking system of the vehicle, shutting the engine down, disengagingthe transmission, and the like such that the vehicle cannot move forwardcan be generated. Similarly, signals for turning on and off the lightsof the vehicle, flashing the lights, emitting a warning noise (e.g.,horn) by the vehicle and the like may be generated. Similar signals canbe generated for objects detected underneath, behind, beside or at otherlocations with respect to the vehicle. The signals can cause actions tobe taken in a progressive manner based on proximity. For example, firstactions may be to flash the lights or blow the horn. Then, as thevehicle or the object move closer to one another, the brakes may beapplied or the transmission disengaged. A third level of action could beto shut down the engine of the vehicle and engage the parking brake. At645, it is determined whether the object has cleared after the signalsfor safety measures have been generated. If the object is cleared, thenthe process returns to 610. If it has not cleared, then the processreturns to 635, where signals for additional safety measures may begenerated.

While the foregoing description and drawings represent the preferredimplementation of the present invention, it will be understood thatvarious additions, modifications, combinations and/or substitutions maybe made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of thepresent invention as defined in the accompanying claims. In particular,it will be clear to those skilled in the art that the present inventionmay be embodied in other specific forms, structures, arrangements,proportions, and with other elements, materials, and components, withoutdeparting from the spirit or essential characteristics thereof. Oneskilled in the art will appreciate that the invention may be used withmany modifications of structure, arrangement, proportions, materials,and components and otherwise, used in the practice of the invention,which are particularly adapted to specific environments and operativerequirements without departing from the principles of the presentinvention. In addition, features described herein may be used singularlyor in combination with other features. The presently disclosedimplementations are, therefore, to be considered in all respects asillustrative and not restrictive, the scope of the invention beingindicated by the appended claims and not limited to the foregoingdescription.

It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that changes could bemade to the implementations described above without departing from thebroad inventive concept thereof. It is understood, therefore, that thisinvention is not limited to the particular implementations disclosed,but it is intended to cover modifications within the spirit and scope ofthe present invention, as defined by the following claims.

1. A vehicle object notification system, comprising: a steeringinterface comprising a plurality of light-emitting elements, each of thelight-emitting elements arranged in an elongated pattern along arespective portion of the steering interface, wherein a first lightemitting element is configured to illuminate based on a detection of anobject relative to a first portion of a vehicle and a second lightemitting element is configured to illuminate based on a detection of anobject relative to a second portion of a vehicle, wherein the secondlight emitting element is arranged in an elongated pattern along a hubportion of the steering interface, the second light emitting elementconfigured to illuminate when the object is located at least one ofbehind the vehicle or underneath the vehicle.
 2. The vehicle objectnotification system of claim 1, wherein the first light emitting elementis arranged in an elongated pattern along a rim portion of the steeringinterface, the first light emitting element configured to illuminatewhen the object is located in front of the vehicle.
 3. (canceled) 4.(canceled)
 5. The vehicle object notification system of claim 1, whereinthe first light-emitting element includes a plurality of regions, eachregion configured to selectively illuminate based on a respectivelocation of the object relative to the first portion of the vehicle. 6.The vehicle object notification system of claim 5, wherein the secondlight-emitting element includes a plurality of regions, each regionconfigured to selectively illuminate based on a respective location ofthe object relative to the second portion of the vehicle.
 7. A vehicleobject notification system, comprising: a steering interface; atplurality of light-emitting elements coupled to the steering interface,a first one of the plurality of light-emitting elements arranged in anelongated pattern along a rim portion of the steering interface and asecond light-emitting element arranged in an elongated pattern along ahub portion of the steering interface; a controller communicativelycoupled to the plurality of light-emitting elements and configured to:receive information indicative of an object detected proximate thevehicle; determine a first location of the object relative to a firstportion of the vehicle, based on the received information; provide, tothe first light-emitting element arranged in an elongated pattern alongthe rim portion of the steering interface, a first control signal forilluminating the first light-emitting element according to anillumination pattern, the illumination pattern based on the firstlocation of the object; determine a second location of the objectrelative to a second portion of the vehicle, based on the receivedinformation; and provide, to the second light-emitting element arrangedin the elongated pattern along the hub portion of the steering interfacea second control signal for illuminating the second light-emittingelement according to a second illumination pattern, the secondillumination pattern based on the second location of the object, whereinthe second location comprises at least one of an area behind the vehicleor underneath the vehicle.
 8. (canceled)
 9. (canceled)
 10. (canceled)11. The vehicle object notification system of claim 7, wherein the firstlocation comprises an area in front of the vehicle.
 12. (canceled) 13.(canceled)
 14. The vehicle object notification system of claim 7,wherein the first light-emitting element includes a plurality ofregions, each region configured to selectively illuminate based on arespective location of the object relative to the first portion of thevehicle.
 15. The vehicle object notification system of claim 7, whereinthe second light-emitting element includes a plurality of regions, eachregion configured to selectively illuminate based on a respectivelocation of the object relative to the second portion of the vehicle.16. A vehicle, comprising: one or more ground-engaging devices; asteering interface, coupled to one or more ground-engaging devices andcomprising a rim portion and a hub portion, the rim portion configuredfor grasping by an operator of the vehicle; a first light-emittingelement coupled to the steering interface, the first light-emittingelement arranged in an elongated pattern along at least a portion of therim portion of the steering interface; a second light-emitting elementcoupled to the steering interface, the second light-emitting elementarranged in an elongated pattern along at least a portion of the hubportion of the steering interface; a controller communicatively coupledto the first light-emitting element and the second light-emittingelement configured to: receive information indicative of an objectdetected proximate the vehicle; determine the location of the objectrelative at a portion of the vehicle, based on the received information;and providing, to at least one of the first light-emitting element andthe second light-emitting element, a control signal for illuminating theat least one of the first light-emitting element and the secondlight-emitting element according to an illumination pattern, theillumination pattern based on the location of the object, wherein thecontrol signal is provided to the second light-emitting element when thelocation of the object is behind or underneath the vehicle. 17.(canceled)
 18. (canceled)
 19. The vehicle of claim 16, whereindetermining the location of the object relative to the portion of thevehicle includes determining the location of the object is in a firstlocation relative to the portion of the vehicle, and wherein providingthe control signal to the at least one light-emitting element includesproviding the control signal to the first light-emitting element. 20.The vehicle of claim 19, wherein the first location comprises an area infront of the vehicle.
 21. The vehicle of claim 19, wherein determiningthe location of the object relative to the portion of the vehicleincludes determining the location of the object is in a second locationrelative to the portion of the vehicle, and wherein providing thecontrol signal to the at least one light-emitting element includesproviding the control signal to the second light-emitting element. 22.The vehicle of claim 21, wherein the second location comprises at leastone of an area behind the vehicle or underneath the vehicle.
 23. Thevehicle of claim 16, wherein the first light-emitting element includes aplurality of regions, each region configured to selectively illuminatebased on a respective location of the object relative to a first portionof the vehicle.
 24. The vehicle of claim 16, wherein the secondlight-emitting element includes a plurality of regions, each regionconfigured to selectively illuminate based on a respective location ofthe object relative to a second portion of the vehicle.